Casey Dick Named Razorbacks Starting Quarterback

AP: Dick to replace Johnson vs. Gamecocks

"It's not that I'm saying it's Robert Johnson's fault," Nutt said. "Nothing could be further from the truth. Robert Johnson has done some good things for our program and he's still needed."

Nutt said Dick deserves a chance to show if he can spark the Razorback offense.

As a senior at Allen High School in Texas, Dick completed 133-of-248 passes for 14 touchdowns. He also rushed for 401 yards and eight touchdowns in his final high school year.

Nutt said Dick has thrown against the Arkansas defense all season in practice "and has done very, very well."

"He has a strong arm and good instincts," Nutt said. "It's hard to explain. He just has 'it.' He just seems to have a knack for making some plays and we're going to give him an opportunity."

Also:

Nate Allen: Change under center and Razorbacks' stalling passing game forces Nutt to make move at quarterback
Bob Holt: Freshman QB to start for UA
ARSN Video: Redshirt pulled from Dick, will start versus South Carolina
HawgSports.com: True freshman Dick gets the nod at QB (subscription)

Updated 10/31/05 8:05 p.m. - Added additional links.